Sir Elton John has never been shy about sharing his thoughts on what's wrong in the music world. Now, the chart-topping piano man has some harsh words for the various reality TV talent shows that saturate our brains these days.

"I'm not a fan of talent shows," John snipped to The Radio Times. "I was asked to judge American Idol. I couldn't do it because I won't slag anyone off. Also I don't want to be on television. It's become boring, a***-paralysingly brain crippling."

On the flipside, John doesn't have an issue with American Idol and X Factor mastermind Simon Cowell, but vocalizes his uncertainty about each show's set up for long-lasting success.

"I like Simon Cowell, but what he does is TV entertainment. There have been some good acts, but the only way to sustain a career is to pay your dues…," he adds.

"TV vaults you to superstardom and then you have to back it up, which is hard. [X Factor winners] Leona Lewis and Alexandra Burke are at the mercy of the next song they can get. Susan Boyle was an endearing phenomenon, but I fear she might not understand the rigours of show business."

Sir Elton isn't all piss and vinegar over the current slew of talented artists, having praised the likes of Lily Allen, Lady Gaga, and Amy Winehouse, all of whom pen their own material.

"It's important they write their own songs, so they're not at the mercy of anyone. Songwriters today are pretty awful, which is why everything sounds the same. Contemporary pop isn't very inspiring."

Do you agree with Sir Elton John's take on reality talent shows? Are they the real deal or just garbage?